OUR MISSION
First Friends of New Jersey and New York upholds the inherent dignity and humanity of immigrants who are impacted by the immigration enforcement system. We provide compassion and hope through connections with volunteers dedicated to helping them survive detention, gain freedom and rebuild their lives.
OUR VISION
A society where immigrants are welcomed, valued and empowered.
WHO WE SERVE
Immigrants, asylum seekers and their families in New Jersey and New York whose lives have been impacted by the U.S. immigration and enforcement system.
First Friends News, Impact Report and Stories
Friendsgiving 2022
November 12th, 2022: First Friends Friendsgiving Please join us for friendship, food and fun! To…
FF 2021 Annual Report
OUR MISSION: First Friends of NJ and NY upholds the inherent dignity and humanity of…
A Note from Former Detained Friend Matthieu
Eight years in prison was nothing compared to the horror of spending 5 months in…
AVERAGE DAILY DETAINEE POPULATION IN 2019
COVID POSITIVE FRIENDS IN DETENTION CENTERS
NUMBER OF ICE DETENTION FACILITIES IN THE U.S.
TOTAL NUMBER OF DETAINED FRIENDS VISITED
WORDS FROM OUR FRIENDS
Hear directly from both detained friends and our compassionate volunteers.
``I had no money to call people, so First Friends providing stamps and writing materials really helped. It allowed me to communicate with my lawyer and other people I needed to stay in touch with.”A DETAINED FRIEND
POST-RELEASE SERVICES
“I feel that visiting and writing to detained friends has greatly enriched my life. I have had the opportunity to make what I hope is a meaningful contribution to their lives as well.”A VOLUNTEER
VISITING A DETAINEE
“Today, I am most thankful that I am in America where I have a job, safety, and freedom. First Friends gave me hope and compassion when I needed it most.``A RELEASED FRIEND
QUOTE OF A DETAINED FRIEND ON BEING DETAINED